Music faculty profile: Toni-Marie Montgomery

Toni-Marie Montgomery joined the School of Music as Dean in 2003. An accomplished pianist, she was formerly the dean of the School of Fine Arts at the University of Kansas.

The University's first female African American dean, Montgomery is committed to expanding funding for the arts, an area she emphasized with great success at the University of Kansas.

Questions and Answers

What brings you to Northwestern?

The reputation of Northwestern University and the prestige of the School of Music were the primary reasons for my interest in the position.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Receipt of the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano chamber music and accompanying.

What inspires you most?

True life stories of individuals who have conquered adversity.

What is your most prized possession?

The Steinway grand piano purchased for me 31 years ago by my late mother.

What is your favorite piece of music?

Claude Debussy's "La Mer."

Which character trait do you most admire in others?

Trustworthiness.

Which character trait do you dislike most in others?

Dishonesty.

When did you last laugh out loud?

Today in a meeting of deans.

Toni-Marie Montgomery

Toni-Marie Montgomery